NCP training session 30 October 2002

Integrated information systemon RTD in Europe

Gwenda Jeffreys-Jones, DG RTDEuropean Commission

Outline of presentation

Why we need an Info System

What we propose, conceptually and in operational terms

How we plan to implement the system

Why an info system? (1)

June 2000 Research Council called on MS and the Commission to devise an information tool to improve the exchange of information on research policies.

Better access to information on other countries’ activities can help improve the design and coherence of national policies, and in this way contribute to the creation of ERA.

Why an info system? (2)

Organised sources of information on national policies are useful for:

Scientific community National Contact Points European Commission

Principles of an integrated info system

• Provide access to information about MS’/AS’ RTD policies & programmes via existing sources of information. (Not project information)

• Consistent format, user-friendly solution,flexible enough to adapt to future needs

• Centralised access through a detailed meta-structure to distributed sources of information

• Provide sophisticated search, fusion, analysis and presentation tools

“Added value hub” solution

• A central point of access : a web-site with a distinct identity

• The content ensured by local agents in each

MS/AS.

• Offers more than a simple portal.

• Costs less and is more up to date than centralised database.

Proposal for an operational structure

1. A provider to develop the central point of access (CORDIS)

2. MS/AS local agents

3. A Steering Committee from MS/AS

4. A Coordinating organisation

CORDIS will develop the system architecture and host the central point of access:

• On the basis of the recommendations of the Commission’s feasibility study

• Synergies with existing CORDIS’ tools and products

• New features needed for the integrated information system are foreseen to be developed by CORDIS

1. The central point of access

Each participating country designates a local agent responsible for that country’s content on the central hub site.

The local agents’ tasks will be to:• Identify relevant sources of information

in the country

• Ensure regular updating of input to the system

• Validate information before it goes onto the central point of access (web-site)

2. MS/AS local agents

The role of the Steering Committee will be political guidance:

•Contributing to the development of the meta- structure

•Participating in definition of general features of the system

Each participating MS/AS will be represented by one high level person close to and knowledgeable about RTD policy

The Commission will chair the Steering Committee

3. The Steering Committee

Responsible for managing and coordinating the whole system

Ensuring the interface between the different players:

• Implement the recommendations of the steering committee of MS/AS regarding

the meta-structure

•Follow up the network of MS/AS local agents

• Guarantee the link between the central point of access and the local agents

4. The coordinating organisation

Website plan

• The Commission services are consulting with Member and Associated States and will shortly take a decision on the possibility of a pilot project, for example in one thematic area.

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